Breast Implant Revision Los Angeles
About the procedure
Breast implants do not last forever! Occasionally, breast implant complications such as capsular contracture, breast implant deflation and rupture, and breast implant malposition may occur. Other times, the soft tissue of the breast stretches in response to the weight of the implant and breast implant complications such as bottoming out and the double bubble deformity may occur. This can lead to breast asymmetry, which is difficult to correct! Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Elliot Hirsch uses a variety of techniques including mastopexy, gummy bear implants, breast implant removal and exchange, neosubpectoral pockets, and liposuction to make the breasts appear more symmetric and restore the natural, youthful look of the breasts.
Capsular Contracture
Any time that an implant is placed into the body, the body responds by forming a capsule around it. This happens with pretty much all implantable devices including breast implants, hip/knee prosthesis, etc. Sometimes, for reasons that are not fully understood, the capsule becomes hard and contracts, which can cause distortion and pain. Learn more about capsular contracture treatment in Los Angeles. There are 4 grades of capsular contracture in breast implants:
- Grade I capsular contracture: the breast is soft and normally shaped
- Grade II capsular contracture: the breast is firm, but is normally shaped
- Grade III capsular contracture: the breast is firm and is distorted
- Grade IV capsular contracture: the breast is firm, distorted, and painful
Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Elliot Hirsch uses techniques such as implant replacement with gummy bear breast implants, plane change into a subpectoral pocket, and breast lift when treating capsular contracture.
Breast Implant Deflation
Over time, breast implants can rupture and deflate. If this happens with a saline breast implant, it can be gradual or sudden, and you may notice a decrease in the size of your breast as the saline leaks out of the implant and is gradually absorbed by the body. If this happens with a silicone implant, it can be very subtle as the implant material is often contained within the capsule that forms around the implant. There are many reasons for breast implant deflation including normal wear and tear as well as trauma. If you think that you have a deflated breast implant, you should go to your plastic surgeon as soon as possible because over time, the breast tissue will contract around the deflated implant and this could make repair more difficult. The picture to the right shows a deflated silicone breast implant along with the capsule that had formed around it.
In order to fix a deflated breast implant, it is necessary to remove the ruptured implant (and occasionally the implant capsule). A new implant can be placed at the same time, if desired, and other procedures such as a breast lift can be performed as well. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the ruptured breast implant removal, although this typically requires pre-certification.
Patient Reviews
I have been waiting for months to do this review & it is longgggg overdue!!! Dr Hirsch is the best of the best! I had a ruptured breast implant for many years & I needed a reduction but did not want any scars! When I first consulted with him it was for a few minutes but he addressed every single concern I had with the reduction & took his time explaining what would be best for me. He ended up placing my implant half over & under the muscle which gave it a natural lift. I went 2 cup sizes smaller for professional purposes. I went in a second time with my boyfriend so he could ask questions as well. And again, Dr Hirsch was nothing but pleasant, honest & very clear in what he was doing. This was a very tough but best decision I made. The day of surgery I felt scared because I was not sure what the outcome would be. I was in surgery for 4 hours ..this goes to show that he really took his time & cared for the patients needs & best result ever.
I was concerned Id need a breast lift & have scars as the implants I had removed were 21 years old..they were old to drink in other words..but they had to go. He is not going to do something that you do not want but will do whats best & natural for the patient. I could never see myself going anywhere else. They look natural and I am no longer a 36D, I am a 34C. There are so many “breast expert ” surgeons you see on tv & plastered all over the place..but Dr Hirsch is really the man & a true hidden gem. He is worth every penny and reasonable. Give him a try….you will not be disappointed
– Jasmin S.
Dr. Elliot fixed a major problem that I was told by three other prominent plastic surgeons could not be fixed. He did a miraculous job and I could not be happier with the results. I would highly recommend him for any plastic surgery procedure.
– Maria P.
Breast Implant Double Bubble
A double bubble breast implant deformity is a condition where a second fold appears in the breast, usually in the lower pole near the chest wall. The causes of the double bubble breast deformity are unclear although it can occasionally result if the inframammary fold position is lowered during the initial breast augmentation surgery. Patients with a double bubble may notice a fullness in the lower part of the breast, or a second fold with additional breast tissue beneath.
In order to correct the double bubble, Dr. Hirsch uses techniques such as a neosubpectoral pocket combined with a breast lift to help reposition the breast implant and remove excess skin. Often, this can be performed in conjunction with a change in breast implants as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast Implant Revision in Los Angeles
What is breast implant revision surgery?
Breast implant revision surgery is a procedure to correct or improve the results of a previous breast augmentation. It can involve replacing old implants, changing implant size, addressing complications such as capsular contracture, or improving the overall appearance of the breasts.
Why would I need breast implant revision surgery?
There are several reasons someone might need breast implant revision surgery, including implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue), dissatisfaction with the size or shape of the implants, rippling, or implant malposition. Some patients also undergo revision surgery to switch from saline to silicone implants or vice versa.
What is capsular contracture, and how is it treated?
Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue around the breast implant hardens, causing discomfort and distortion in breast shape. Treatment for capsular contracture typically involves removing the hardened tissue (capsulectomy) and, in many cases, replacing the implant.
How long do breast implants last before they need revision?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Most implants last between 10 to 15 years, although some may last longer without complications. Patients should monitor their implants for any changes and consult with their surgeon if they experience issues or discomfort.
Can I switch from saline to silicone implants during breast implant revision?
Yes, many patients choose to switch from saline to silicone implants (or vice versa) during breast implant revision surgery. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your options and help you choose the best type of implant for your desired result.
What is the recovery process like after breast implant revision?
Recovery after breast implant revision is similar to the recovery from initial breast augmentation. Most patients can return to light activities within a week and resume normal activities after 4-6 weeks. Dr. Hirsch will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Will breast implant revision leave additional scars?
In many cases, Dr. Hirsch can use the same incisions from your previous breast augmentation to minimize additional scarring. However, if new incisions are necessary, Dr. Hirsch will strategically place them to ensure they are as discreet as possible.
What complications can be corrected with breast implant revision?
Breast implant revision surgery can address a range of complications, including implant rupture, rippling, capsular contracture, implant displacement (bottoming out, lateral displacement), and dissatisfaction with the size or shape of the implants.
How do I know if I need breast implant revision surgery?
You may need breast implant revision surgery if you are experiencing discomfort, changes in breast appearance, or complications such as implant rupture or capsular contracture. Dr. Hirsch will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if revision surgery is right for you.
Can I combine breast implant revision with other procedures?
Yes, many patients choose to combine breast implant revision with other procedures, such as a breast lift (mastopexy), fat grafting, or liposuction. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your aesthetic goals and recommend the best approach for you.
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